Hard water is a scourge upon homes. It’s unmistakable by the orange film it leaves behind in your toilet and shower. While many of the problems that hard water causes are aesthetic and irritating, if left untreated, it can result in multiple visits from a plumber. Though the term “hard water” isn’t uncommon, many people don’t know what it is. Here’s what you need to know about hard water.

What Is Hard Water?

While most water contains magnesium and calcium, hard water contains elevated levels. Mineral deposits from the ground are carried into your home as water passes over them. Hard water is a common occurrence throughout the United States, but it varies by location depending upon the amount of mineral or limestone deposits in the ground.

What Are the Plumbing Concerns?

The increased minerals in the water build up as they pass through your pipes and flow into your fixtures. This can cause clogs that restrict the flow of water, leading to costly damages.

These deposits of minerals—referred to as scale—are more prominent in steel pipes but over time, will clog any variety of piping. Once a pipe is fully clogged, a plumber will not be able to fix it, and it will need to be replaced.

Water heaters pose some of the biggest hard water complications in the home. As the scale builds up on the heaters, they begin to function less efficiently. The components of the heater will become too hot and fail, requiring a replacement.  

What Can You Do About it?

You’ve probably seen dozens of articles about cleaning up hard water with vinegar and commercial products, but the scale you can see isn’t the real problem. It’s the mineral deposits deep in the pipes that are the most problematic. The only way to prevent hard water from damaging the fixtures and appliances in your home is to install a water softener. This filtration system removes the excess minerals from the water as it enters your home—before it can reach your appliances and fixtures. A certified plumber can easily install one in your home and eliminate future hard water problems. 

If hard water problems are affecting your home, turn to the professional plumbers at Disponette Service in Lexington, KY. For over 40 years they’ve consistently provided top-notch service in the plumbing and heating maintenance industry. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (859) 255-7157 to schedule an appointment.